With more than 200 affordably-priced original artworks for sale, the Los Angeles Art Association's annual gem show allows everyone to become an "art gem" collector.

This one-night-only opportunity at LAAA's Gallery 825 on La Cienega Boulevard is widely embraced by the Southern California art community as an important showcase of emerging art trends.

The first 100 registrants for the 6 to 7pm VIP Reception will receive an original signed print by artist Jonas Kulikauskas; and they'll have the first opportunity to preview and purchase additional gems by an exceptional roster of emerging, mid-career and established artists. The doors open for general admission from 7 to 9pm.

The event is made possible by generous sponsors including Capital ART, ArtWeekLA, laartsonline.com, Izze and Thaddeus Hunter Smith. DJ by DJ Baroness.

In the years since its inception the gem exhibition has proven to be both a launch pad for emerging artists, as well as a tremendous value opportunity for beginning and seasoned collectors. Past gemattendees have secured original works by Alexandra Grant, Meeson Pae Yang, Richard Artschwager, John Baldessari, Frank Gehry and many more! The 2012 Benefit Committee chaired by Claudia Deutsch includes such art and civic luminaries as Harry Chandler, Kim Martindale, and Thaddeus Hunter Smith.

LAAA Executive Director Peter Mays explains, "Our gem benefit is the best place to discover emerging talents early in their career paths, while they are still affordable to a broad base of collectors... it's THE perfect kick-off to L.A.'s spring art season."